In six days time, the first hosepipe ban comes into force across the region. On April 5th, Southern Water, South East Water, Thames Water, and Veolia Water will impose restrictions. Millions of householders will not be allowed to water gardens, nor wash cars or windows using a hosepipe.

Charlotte Wilkins reports on the prospect of a long, dry summer. She spoke to Dr Ben Lloyd-Hughes at the University of Reading about what's needed to get us out of the drought and to gardeners with advice on how to get through the dry spell.